Denver Broncos 2021 NFL Schedule: 5 must-win games
After a productive off-season, the Denver Broncos are hopeful they can contend in the AFC West
Take Drew Lock out of the equation for a second. How good are the Denver Broncos now? Top-five team in the AFC? Top 10 team in the NFL?
In reality, one has to love the recent additions made by new GM George Paton. Vic Fangio’s defense needed stability at the cornerback position. That was addressed with the additions of Ronald Darby, Kyle Fuller, and in the draft with Patrick Surtain II. On top of that, Denver made sure to keep Justin Simmons for the long-term as the leader of the defense.
Paton swung big and bright during the 2021 NFL draft and bettered the team for it. If Lock can show that he is a franchise-caliber quarterback, Denver is right in the conversation for the AFC West division. That’s a big if though knowing the competition already under center in the division.
Here’s five games the Broncos must win next season if they hope to return to the postseason for the first time since the Peyton Manning era.
5 must-win games for the Denver Broncos
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. . Dallas Cowboys . 5. player. NFC East . 123
Let’s be real: Dallas is the team everyone wants to beat each season. Denver is no different, especially knowing that their defense should match well against the Cowboys’ offense.
Dak Prescott has officially been paid to be the franchise guy in the Lone Star State. You’ll have to start living up to expectations things to a plethora of receivers such as Michael Gallup, Amari Cooper and second-year sensation CeeDee Lamb. Denver’s secondary should look better in all aspects to win multiple man coverages.
As for the Broncos offense, Lock still has a near flawless set of weapons. Jerry Jeudy is looking to rebound after a mixed rookie season while the return of Courtland Sutton should add pressure to the Cowboys’ defense. Noah Fant might be the emerging tight end in the NFL while KJ Hamler has speed.
Add in Melvin Gordon and Javonte Williams against an unknown run defense, this could be all in favor of Denver despite the game being in at AT&T Stadium. Beating Dallas might not help in the divisional race, but it will feel good for Denver to take down “America’s Team” in its own backyard.